Front page of flagscape, an 18 page pdf talking highly about diversity and inclusion and treating neurodiverse employees with respect and admiration, later in the same day I’m yelled at that I need to be more like other people to ever be respected or successful. They preach it from above but then punish you for trying to follow it from below, even after pointing it out. Another neurodiversity failure and disappointment, and the same day they tried to tell us we’re special in a positive way. What’s the point if the SLTs don’t care to create the culture? Now everything is worse because I thought I’d be respected for being me.
4 replies (most recent on top)
Respectfully, in this case, I don't think it has to do with neurodivergence, unless you provide more detail. They are not asking you to be like your peers in terms of personality but in productivity or proactivity. It gives the impression that you are having a lower than average performance, and you need to improve that. Of course you can be yourself, but keep in mind that this is a job and you are naturally expected to deliver results (here or elsewhere). Your personality, your attitude towards your duties, your willingness to help, is what will make you respected and even admired.
You are not going to be respected for Being You. None of us are.
If you have a visible diversity trait you can use that to your advantage. You still won't be "respected" but you will make more money & have a better job which may be all the respect you need.
If your diversity trait is not visible, don't count on special treatment. Harsh but true.
But what exactly do they mean by that ("need to be more like other people to ever be respected or successful")? I mean, if you're fulfilling all of your responsibilities and being proactive, I don't think you have anything to worry about. Could it be that they feel that you are failing in something? I just want to understand why you were told that. It's a question in good faith.
This is your supervisor and I have to say I am disappoint. You need to get back to work IMMEDIATELY!